Block B - Chigumula Forest Reserve
Block B is a guesthouse near Chigumula Forest Reserve.
- Location
- Chigumula Forest Reserve, Southern Malawi & Shire Valley, Malawi, Southern Africa
- Coordinates
- -15.905770, 35.217697
- Activities
- guesthouse
Best Time to Visit Block B
The best months to visit Block B are April, May, August, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Month-by-Month Safari Conditions
- January: Poor, temperature 20.65°C, rainfall 349.5mm, sunshine 8.8 hrs, humidity 87.9%
- February: Good, temperature 21.19°C, rainfall 164.5mm, sunshine 9.8 hrs, humidity 85.2%
- March: Poor, temperature 20.21°C, rainfall 237mm, sunshine 9.8 hrs, humidity 85.6%
- April: Great, temperature 19.34°C, rainfall 49.2mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 82.1%
- May: Great, temperature 17.4°C, rainfall 18.2mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 74.2%
- June: Good, temperature 15.88°C, rainfall 36.4mm, sunshine 9.6 hrs, humidity 75.4%
- July: Good, temperature 15.49°C, rainfall 21.1mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 72.3%
- August: Great, temperature 17.61°C, rainfall 21.2mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 65.2%
- September: Great, temperature 20.38°C, rainfall 8.5mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 56.9%
- October: Great, temperature 22.38°C, rainfall 35.7mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 57.9%
- November: Great, temperature 23.07°C, rainfall 93.3mm, sunshine 11.6 hrs, humidity 64.6%
- December: Good, temperature 22.64°C, rainfall 168.5mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 73.7%
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time of year to stay at Block B and explore the Chigumula Forest Reserve?
We find the dry season, from May to October, offers the most comfortable experience at Block B. The weather is cooler and drier, making walks in the forest reserve much more pleasant, and the views across the landscape are often clearer. This period also means fewer mosquitoes, which we always appreciate.
What kind of atmosphere and services should we expect at Block B, considering it's a guesthouse rather than a traditional safari lodge?
Block B offers a wonderfully intimate and relaxed guesthouse atmosphere, quite different from a bustling safari lodge. We love its quiet charm, providing a comfortable base for exploring the nearby reserve or simply unwinding with a good book on the veranda. Expect personalized service and a focus on local hospitality, rather than structured game drives.
Is Block B a good option for families with children, and what safety aspects should we be aware of near the forest reserve?
We certainly recommend Block B for families seeking a peaceful retreat; the spacious grounds offer plenty of room for children to play safely. While the forest reserve is nearby, it's not a "big five" area, so wildlife encounters are generally limited to birds and smaller, harmless creatures. We always advise supervising children, especially if exploring the immediate surroundings, but overall, it feels very secure.
What are the typical costs associated with a stay at Block B, and what's generally included in the price?
Block B offers excellent value, positioning itself as a comfortable and affordable option compared to many safari lodges in Malawi. Generally, your rate will include accommodation and often a delicious breakfast, with other meals available upon request for an additional, reasonable charge. We find the pricing transparent and the quality of the food consistently good.
What kind of wildlife can we realistically hope to see when staying at Block B and visiting Chigumula Forest Reserve?
While Chigumula isn't a big game park, we are always delighted by the rich birdlife around Block B and within the forest reserve itself. You can expect to spot various colourful species, along with smaller mammals like vervet monkeys and perhaps even some shy duiker if you're lucky on a forest walk. It's a place for appreciating the smaller, intricate details of nature, rather than chasing large predators.